Cincinnati Microwave, Inc.

Janet R Poston

Lawrence G Decker

Edward F Hume

A pulsed-laser radar detection apparatus includes a decision network coupled to a photodetector. The decision network generates an output pulse when a signal detected by the photodetector is a valid signal according to predefined criteria which are implemented in the decision network. An indicator provides an audible or visual indication that a valid signal has been detected. According to the present invention, a Q-switched modulator is provided in the field of view of the photodetector to generate a simulated valid signal. A test switch is connected in series with the modulator such that closing the test switch causes a simulated valid signal to be generated by the modulator.

Test circuit for a pulsed-laser detector

A method and apparatus for determining the strength and proximity of a pulsed-laser radar signal is provided. A photodetector detects signals and provides the signals to a decision network. The decision network evaluates the signals and generates an output pulse when a detected signal is a valid signal according to predetermined criteria implemented in the decision network. A processor is coupled to the decision network for counting output pulses. A threat indicator is driven by the processor in proportion to the output pulse count.

Method and apparatus for pulsed-laser detection

A photodetector receives an optical signal and converts it an electrical signal. A pulse stretcher converts the electrical signal into a first signal which is characterized by having an increased pulse width relative to the electrical signal. A noise averager converts the electrical signal into a second signal which is representative of the average noise component of the electrical signal. A threshold reference is generated as a linear function of the potential difference between the first signal and the second signal. A first comparator compares the magnitude of the first signal and the threshold reference signal and generates a first logic output which is true if the magnitude of the first signal is greater than the magnitude of the threshold reference signal. A second comparator compares the magnitude of electrical signal and the threshold reference signal and generates a second logic output which is true if the pulse width of the electrical signal measured as a funtion of time is greater than the response time of the second comparator. A logic circuit generates an alert indication if the first logic output is true and the second logic output is false.

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Alexandria, KY, United States of America

Janet R Poston